The case arose from Mr Busby transporting a bullock to Omagh Meats which was not fit for the journey.

A Department of Agriculture Veterinary Officer conducting bovine ante-mortem inspections at the plant observed the bullock being unloaded and saw that it could not bear any weight on its left hind leg.

The vet suspected the leg was broken and ensured the bullock was destroyed in the lairage. On post-mortem inspection the bullock had a complete fracture of the lower femur (thigh bone).

A DARD spokesperson said they were determined to protect the welfare of livestock.